Report All Poaching

What is Poaching?

Poaching is the illegal shooting, trapping, or taking of game, fish or other natural resources from private or public property. A poacher is someone who hunts, traps, or fishes illegally. This also includes someone who possesses or commercializes in wildlife resources contrary to Michigan or Federal law.

Reporting a violation

If you witness a natural resource violation, report it immediately. You can do this by texting or calling 800-292-7800, phone lines are open 24/7. You can also use the online poaching complaint form (for complaints within Michigan only). Please note, if you use the form there may be a delay between when your complaint is submitted and when it is received. In urgent cases, please call or text instead. You may remain anonymous!

Please give as much detail as possible:

What was the violation?

When and where did it occur?

What weapons or equipment were used?

What vehicles or crafts were used? Registration numbers and descriptions are important!

How many people were involved?

Describe the people, including their physical description and clothing.

What evidence is still at the scene?

Did the violator(s) take evidence of the crime with them?

Which way or where did they go and how?

What happens when I report a violation?

The report comes directly into the DNR Law Enforcement's Communications Center. The dispatchers receive calls and quickly relay information to a conservation officer in the field, in the same manner as a 9-1-1 dispatch center relays information to local police.

Number of calls over past three years

Year

Number of Calls

Complaints Generated

2018

33,637

6,787

2017

35,647

7,762

2016

34,156

6,973

2015

36,790

7,089

Do I get a reward?

You may qualify for a reward if you supply information that leads to the arrest and conviction of a poacher(s). Assistance in applying for a reward will be provided by the conservation officer handling your complaint.

Past reward amounts

Year

Amount

2018

$5,350

2017

$12,750

2016

$8,350

2015

$10,450

Is this only for Michigan?

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division is a member of the International Wildlife Crimestoppers. We and the other member states and provinces recognize the harm done to our natural resources by incidents of poaching of fish, game and endangered species, wherever they occur. If you have information regarding poaching in any state or Canadian province you may report it to us (via text or phone call only) and we will forward it to the appropriate agency.